Implantable prothesis for minimally invasive hernia repair

ABSTRACT

An implantable prosthesis for hernia repair is designed for minimally invasive, robotic, or laparoscopic surgery. Various embodiments of the implantable prosthesis are tailored for inguinal hernia repair, including direct, indirect, and bilateral hernia defects, as well as for femoral hernia repair.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 63/016,750 filed Apr. 28, 2020, the disclosure of the above-identified application is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND Technical Field

The instant disclosure relates to an implantable prosthesis for use in hernia repair surgery. In particular, the implantable prosthesis can be used during minimally invasive surgical repair of inguinal hernias, including direct, indirect, and bilateral hernia defects.

Related Art

Surgically implantable prosthetic mesh patches (“prosthetic mesh,” “implantable mesh,” “implantable prosthesis,” “mesh patch,” “mesh,” and/or the like) are commonly used for the repair of inguinal and other abdominal wall hernias. Currently available mesh patches designed for minimally invasive (e.g., laparoscopic or robotic) inguinal hernia repair are either flat sheets of mesh or have a three-dimensional shape that conforms to the groin anatomy. Such mesh patches typically come in three different sizes (medium, large, and extra-large), and they are generally similar in shape. Examples of currently available hernia repair mesh patches products include 3D Max′ manufactured by Bard and Dextile™ manufactured by Medtronic. These products are designed to conform to the inguinal anatomy and cover the myopectineal orifice, but they are not specifically or preferentially designed for either the direct, or indirect hernia spaces.

The foregoing discussion is intended only to illustrate the present field and should not be taken as a disavowal of claim scope.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure describes both unilateral and bilateral implantable prostheses designed for hernia repair and particularly inguinal hernia repair.

In some embodiments, an implantable prosthesis for repairing a direct or indirect inguinal hernial defect is described including a piece of biocompatible material having a preformed three-dimensional shape and defined by an outer edge. The biocompatible piece has a lateral side and an opposite medial side extending along a medial-lateral axis. The biocompatible piece also has a superior side and an opposite inferior side extending along a superior-inferior axis. The outer edge includes a convex lateral outer edge, a medial outer edge, a superior outer edge configured to widen the piece in a medial direction, and an inferior outer edge including one or more concave portions.

The piece further includes an upper portion, a lower portion, an interior edge, and a crease portion. The upper portion includes a spherical cap extending between the superior outer edge and an interior edge. The interior edge extends from the lateral side to the medial side of the piece. The interior edge includes a first and second bifurcated portion on a medial end thereof.

The lower portion extends between the interior edge and the inferior outer edge. The lower portion forms a wavy-shaped wall therebetween. The crease portion is located on the medial side of the piece between the first and second bifurcated end portions on the medial end of the interior edge.

In some embodiments, the superior outer edge may be generally linear. In some embodiments, the superior outer edge may be convex. In some embodiments, the medial outer edge may be a concave medial outer edge.

The biocompatible piece may further include a longest length and a widest width, the longest length extending between the convex lateral outer edge and the medial outer edge and the widest width located on the medial side of the piece extending between the superior outer edge and the inferior outer edge. The interior edge may extend from a portion of the convex lateral edge positioned inferior to the longest length.

The implantable prosthesis may further include one or more barbs positioned on a face of the piece. In some embodiments, the one or more barbs may be positioned on at least a portion of the medial side of the piece along the medial outer edge, positioned on at least a portion of the lower portion of the piece along the inferior outer edge, or both.

In some embodiments, an implantable prosthesis for repairing an indirect inguinal hernial defect is described including a piece of biocompatible material having a preformed three-dimensional shape and defined by an outer edge. The biocompatible piece has a lateral side and an opposite medial side extending along a medial-lateral axis and a superior side and an opposite inferior side extending along a superior-inferior axis. The outer edge includes a convex lateral outer edge, a medial outer edge, a superior outer edge including one or more concave portions, and an inferior outer edge including one or more concave portions.

The piece includes an upper portion, a lower portion, an interior edge, and a crease portion. The upper portion includes a spherical cap extending between the superior outer edge and the interior edge and extending from the lateral side to the medial side. The interior edge includes first and second bifurcated portions on a medial end thereof.

The lower portion extends between the interior edge and the inferior outer edge. The lower portion forms a wavy-shaped wall therebetween. The crease portion is located on the medial side and is defined between the first and second bifurcated end portions on the medial end of the interior edge.

The biocompatible piece may further include a longest length, a widest width, and a shortest width. The longest length extending between the convex lateral outer edge and the medial outer edge. The widest width on the lateral side of the piece extending between the superior outer edge and the inferior outer edge. The shortest width on the medial side of the piece extending between the one or more concave portions of the superior outer edge and the one or more concave portions of the inferior outer edge.

In some embodiments, the interior edge extends from a portion of the convex lateral edge positioned inferior to the longest length. In some embodiments, the interior edge is a non-linear interior edge extending along or crossing over at least a portion of the longest length. In some embodiments, at least one of the first and second bifurcated end portions of the interior edge are non-linear and/or do not extend to the medial outer edge.

The implantable prosthesis may further include one or more barbs positioned on a face of the piece. In some embodiments, the one or more barbs may be positioned on at least a portion of the medial side of the piece along the medial outer edge, positioned on at least a portion of the lower portion of the piece along the inferior outer edge, or both.

In still other embodiments, a bilateral implantable prosthesis for repairing a bilateral inguinal hernial defect is described including a piece of biocompatible material having a preformed three-dimensional shape and defined by an outer edge. The outer edge includes a first convex outer lateral edge, a second convex lateral edge opposite the first convex outer lateral edge, a superior outer edge, and an inferior outer edge opposite the superior outer edge.

The piece includes a first section and a second section. The first section includes a first lateral side opposite a first medial side extending along a first medial-lateral axis of the first section and a first superior side opposite a first inferior side extending along a first superior-inferior axis of the first section. The first section also includes a first upper portion including a spherical cap extending between a first portion of the superior outer edge and a first interior edge, the first interior edge extending from the first lateral side to the first medial side of the first section. The first interior edge may include a first and second bifurcated portion on a medial end thereof.

The first section may further include a first lower portion extending between the first interior edge and a first portion of the inferior outer edge, the first lower portion forming a first wavy-shaped wall. A first crease portion is located on the first medial portion of the first section of the piece and is defined between the first and second bifurcated portions of the first crease on the medial end of the first interior edge.

The second section includes a second lateral side opposite a second medial side extending along a second medial-lateral axis of the second section and a second superior side opposite a second inferior side extending along a second superior-inferior axis of the second section. The second section also includes a second upper portion including a spherical cap extending between a second portion of the superior outer edge and a second interior edge extending from the second lateral side to the second medial side. The second interior edge may include a third and fourth bifurcated portion on a medial end thereof.

The second section may further include a second lower portion extending between the second interior edge and a second portion of the inferior outer edge, the second lower portion forming a second wavy-shaped wall. A second crease portion is located on the second medial portion and is defined between the third and fourth bifurcated portions of the second crease.

The first and second medial sides of the first and second sections form a central band between the first and second lateral sides across a face of the piece of biocompatible material.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The following figures are included to illustrate certain aspects of the present invention and should not be viewed as exclusive embodiments. The subject matter disclosed is capable of considerable modifications, alterations, combinations, and equivalents in form and function, as will occur to those skilled in the art and having the benefit of this disclosure.

FIG. 1 is a plan view of an embodiment of an implantable prosthesis designed for repair of a right-sided direct hernia.

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view along the superior-inferior axis B₁ of the implantable prosthesis shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is an interior view of the implantable prosthesis shown in FIG. 1 within an associated anatomical context.

FIG. 4 is a plan view of an embodiment of an implantable prosthesis designed for repair of a left-sided direct hernia.

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view along the superior-inferior axis B₂ of the implantable prosthesis shown in FIG. 4.

FIG. 6 is an interior view of the implantable prosthesis shown in FIG. 4 within an associated anatomical context.

FIG. 7 is a plan view of an embodiment of an implantable prosthesis designed for repair of a right-sided indirect hernia.

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view along the superior-inferior axis B₃ of the implantable prosthesis shown in FIG. 7.

FIG. 9 is an interior view of the implantable prosthesis shown in FIG. 7 within an associated anatomical context.

FIG. 10 is a plan view of an embodiment of an implantable prosthesis designed for repair of a left-sided indirect hernia.

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view along the superior-inferior axis B₄ of the implantable prosthesis shown in FIG. 10.

FIG. 12 is an interior view of the implantable prosthesis shown in FIG. 10 within an associated anatomical context.

FIG. 13 is a plan view of an embodiment of an implantable prosthesis designed for repair of a bilateral direct hernias.

FIG. 14A is a cross-sectional view of the first section of the implantable prosthesis along the superior-inferior axis B₅ shown in FIG. 13.

FIG. 14B is a cross-sectional view of the second section of the implantable prosthesis along the superior-inferior axis B₆ shown in FIG. 13.

FIG. 15 is an interior view of the implantable prosthesis shown in FIG. 13 within an associated anatomical context.

FIG. 16 is a plan view of an embodiment of an implantable prosthesis designed for repair of a bilateral indirect hernias.

FIGS. 17A and 17 B are a plan view of an embodiment of an implantable prosthesis designed for repair of a bilateral hernia including a direct and indirect hernia.

FIG. 18 is a plan view of an embodiment of a self-fastening implantable prosthesis designed for repair of a bilateral hernia.

FIG. 19 is a plan view of an embodiment of a first and second unilateral implantable prosthesis being combined to form a bilateral implantable prosthesis designed for repair of a bilateral hernia.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Several embodiments of implantable prostheses are disclosed herein. Details of the various embodiments of the present disclosure are described below with specific reference to the figures.

FIGS. 1-19 illustrate various embodiments of an implantable prosthesis that is specifically designed for minimally invasive, robotic, or laparoscopic, repair of one or more defects in muscle or tissue wall, such as a hernia. In particular, the various embodiments of the implantable prosthesis described herein are tailored for inguinal hernia repair, including direct, indirect, and bilateral hernia defects. Direct inguinal hernias can be defined as hernias that originate through the floor of the inguinal canal, through the transversalis fascia, medial to the epigastric vessels (shown and described below with respect to FIGS. 3 and 6). Indirect inguinal hernias can be defined as hernias that occur through a defect lateral to the epigastric vessels, through the internal inguinal ring (shown and described below with respect to FIGS. 9 and 12). Bilateral inguinal hernias can be defined as hernias that are present in both inguinal spaces, right and left (shown and described below with respect to FIG. 15) and can be a combination of direct and indirect hernias. For example, one side can have a direct hernia and the contralateral side can be indirect, or both can be the same type of hernia.

The implantable prostheses described herein can be made of any biocompatible material. The term biocompatible is understood as meaning that the materials can be safely implanted in the human or animal body. Biocompatible materials may include bioresorbable materials, non-bioresorbable materials, and combinations thereof.

Some non-limiting examples of bioresorbable material suitable for the piece of the prostheses described herein can be chosen from among the following materials: polylactic acid (PLA), polycaprolactones (PCL), polydioxanones (PDO), trimethylene carbonates (TMC), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), oxidized cellulose, polyglycolic acid (PGA), polyethylene glycol (PE), copolymers of these materials, and mixtures thereof.

Some non-limiting examples of non-bioresorbable material suitable for the piece of the prostheses described herein can be chosen from among the following non-bioresorbable materials: polypropylenes, polyesters such as polyethylene terephthalates, polyamides, silicones, polyether ether ketone (PEEK), polyarylether ether ketone (PAEK), and mixtures thereof.

The biocompatible piece may be a porous material. In some embodiments, the biocompatible piece of material may be a surgical mesh, in particular a porous surgical mesh. The piece and/or surgical mesh may include any arrangement or assembly of biocompatible yarns, fibers, filaments and/or multifilaments, for example obtained by knitting, weaving, braiding, or even non-woven. The biocompatible pieces and/or surgical mesh, in particular porous pieces and/or surgical mesh, are suitable for the repair of a hernia defect, and particularly repair of an inguinal hernia defect.

In some embodiments, an implantable surgical mesh made of polypropylene may have a single layer monofilament weave with a large pore size (greater than about 1 mm) and a medium (standard) density between about 70-140 g/m². Further, it may be non-absorbable. The mesh can have reinforced edges (e.g., by heat sealing) to give it firmness and to avoid fraying and unraveling of the material as it is handled during the procedure.

The implantable prostheses described herein can have a variety of shapes and sizes, as further described below, and it can have a three-dimensional (3D) contour allowing them to conform to the inguinal canal anatomy (although flat contours may also be used). The prostheses can be designed to fit in the right or left inguinal space, with a specific shape that provides preferential coverage to the floor of the groin to ideally repair direct inguinal hernia defects or larger coverage laterally to provide better repair indirect inguinal hernia defects. The implantable prostheses can also cover the entire myopectineal orifice, which is the entire inguinal space from which both direct and indirect hernias occur. Further, the prostheses can be amenable to being rolled up into a cylindrical shape and inserted through a trocar or other surgical device into the abdomen or preperitoneal space. A surgeon can use a grasper tool or instrument to hold an edge of the prostheses and insert it into the appropriate body cavity by rolling it into a cylinder or scroll shape, or simply pushing it in, depending on the size of the trocar that is used for introducing the prostheses. After insertion, the prostheses can expand and return to its original 3D-conforming shape.

Turning now to FIGS. 1-3, an implantable prosthesis 1 designed for right-sided direct hernia is shown. The implantable prosthesis 1 includes a piece 2 of biocompatible material, such as a textile or mesh, defined by an outer edge 7. The prosthesis 1 (and/or biocompatible piece 2) displays a three-dimensional shape (FIG. 2).

FIG. 1 depicts a medial-lateral axis A₁ and a superior-inferior axis B₁ across a first face 2′ of the biocompatible piece 2 (and/or prosthesis 1). The biocompatible piece 2 has a lateral side 3, a medial side 4, a superior side 5, and an inferior side 6. The piece 2 also includes a second face 2″ opposite the first face 2′ (FIG. 2).

The outer edge 7 of the biocompatible piece 2 includes a convex lateral outer edge 8, a medial outer edge 9, a superior outer edge 10, and a concave inferior outer edge 11. The convex lateral outer edge 8 is opposite the medial outer edge 9 along the medial-lateral axis A₁. The superior outer edge 10 is opposite the concave inferior edge 11 along the superior-inferior axis B₁. The concave inferior outer edge 11 includes at least one concavity 11′. The inferior outer edge 11 connects an inferior portion 8″ of the convex lateral outer edge 8 to an inferior portion 9″ of the medial outer edge 9. The superior outer edge 10 connects a superior portion 8′ of the convex lateral outer edge 8 to a superior portion 9′ of the medial outer edge 9.

As depicted in FIG. 1, in some embodiments, the outer edge 7 of the biocompatible piece 2 includes a convex lateral outer edge 8, a concave medial outer edge 9, a concave inferior outer edge 11, and superior outer edge 10 configured to widen the piece 2 in a medial direction. In such embodiments, the widening superior outer edge 10 may be of any configuration (e.g., one or more generally linear edges, convex edges, or combinations thereof) suitable for rendering the medial side 4 of the piece 2 (and/or prosthesis 1) wider than the lateral side 3.

As further depicted in FIG. 1, in some embodiments, the biocompatible piece 2 is configured to repair a hernia, such as a direct inguinal hernia, and includes a longest length L₁ and a widest width W₁. The longest length L₁ extends between the convex lateral outer edge 8 and the medial outer edge 9. The widest width W₁ is located on the medial side 4 of the piece 2 of the prosthesis 1 designed for direct inguinal hernia repair. The widest width W₁ extends between the superior outer edge 10 and the wavy inferior outer edge 11.

The longest length L₁ of the piece 2 (and/or prosthesis 1) can be between about 14 cm and about 17 cm, and the widest width W₁ of the piece 2 (and/or prosthesis 1) can be between about 10 cm and about 12 cm. For example, a medium size direct hernia prosthesis 1 can be about 14 cm×10 cm (L₁×W₁). A large size direct hernia prosthesis 1 can be about 16 cm×11 cm (L₁×W₁). Finally, an extra-large size direct hernia prosthesis 1 can be 17 cm by 12 cm (L₁×W₁).

The biocompatible piece 2 also includes an upper portion 12, a lower portion 14, an interior edge 16 extending from the lateral side 3 to the medial side 4, and a crease portion 18. The upper portion 12 extends from the lateral side 3 to the medial side 4 across at least the superior side 5 of the piece 2. The upper portion 12 also defines a curved body 13 having a height H₁ transverse to the length and width (FIGS. 2 and 5). The curved body 13 (and/or upper body portion 12) begins at the superior outer edge 10 and extends with a raised curved trajectory towards the interior edge 16 and to a height H₁ of the interior edge 16. The curved body 13 (and/or upper portion 12) may also radiate medially along the superior outer edge 10 to at least the superior portion 9′ of the medial outer edge 9 and/or radiate laterally along the superior outer edge 10 to at least the superior portion 8′ of the convex lateral outer edge 8. In some embodiments, the upper portion 12 may be a spherical cap.

The lower portion 14 defines a wavy-shaped wall 15 extending between the interior edge 16 and the concave inferior outer edge 11. The lower portion 14 extends between the lateral side 3, and particularly the inferior portion 8″ of the convex lateral outer edge 8, to the medial side 4, and particularly the inferior portion 9″ of the medial outer edge 9.

The interior edge 16 defines a crease or fold extending from the lateral side 3 to the medial side 4. As shown in FIG. 1, the interior edge 16 extends from or near a portion of the convex lateral outer edge 8 positioned inferior to the longest length L₁ of the piece 2. The interior edge 16 may be rounded or non-linear, as shown, extending along and/or across at least a portion of the longest length L₁.

The interior edge 16 includes a first and second bifurcated end portion 16′, 16″ on the medial side 4 of the piece 2. The first and second bifurcated end portions 16′, 16″ generally define the crease portion 18 therebetween, with or without a portion of the medial outer edge 9, or particularly the inferior portion 9″ of the medial edge 9. In some embodiments, at least one, if not both, of the first and second bifurcated end portions 16′, 16″ of the interior edge 16 are rounded or non-linear. In some embodiments, at least one, if not both, of the first and second bifurcated end portions 16′, 16″ of the interior edge 16 may not extend to the medial outer edge 9.

The upper portion 12 of the piece 2 may have a surface area which is greater than a surface area of the lower portion 14, the crease portion 18, or both. The upper portion 12 may represent a majority of the surface area of the piece 2. In some embodiments, the upper portion 12 may represent from about 50% to about 80% of the surface area of the piece 2. In some embodiments, the upper portion 12 may represent from about 55% to about 75% of the surface area of the piece 2. In some embodiments, the upper portion 12 may represent from about 60% to about 70% of the surface area of the piece 2.

The lower portion 14 of the piece 2 may have a surface area which is less than a surface area of the upper portion 12, or greater than a surface area of the crease portion 18, or both. The lower portion 14 may represent from about 15% to about 45% of the surface area of the piece 2. In some embodiments, the lower portion 14 may represent from about 20% to about 40% of the surface area of the piece 2. In some embodiments, the lower portion 14 may represent from about 25% to about 35% of the surface area of the piece 2.

As further illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the lower portion 14 of the piece 2 can have a raised, wavy section 15 designed to accommodate the iliac vessels as they course deep (posterior) to the piece 2. The first and second bifurcated end portions 16′, 16″ of crease 16 allows at least a portion, if not a majority, of the crease portion 18 of the piece 2 to sit in the space of Retzius, between the bladder and Cooper's ligament (shown to better advantage in FIG. 3). In addition, the curved body 13 of the upper portion 12, shown in FIG. 2, contributes to the 3D design of the prosthesis 1 and allows for an anatomical fit in the groin.

FIG. 3 illustrates the right-side direct prosthesis 1, e.g., hernia mesh, within the anatomical context in which it is designed to be implanted. The prosthesis 1 covers the right myopectineal orifice 22 (dashed line) of the groin, which includes the entire right inguinal space. The “direct” nature of the prosthesis 1 offers preferential coverage over the floor of the right inguinal canal (Hesselbach's triangle) 24, from which direct hernias originate. For example, the widest width W₁ of the direct prosthesis 1 is located on the medial side 4 of the prosthesis 1. Also shown in FIG. 3 is the right internal inguinal ring 26, from which indirect inguinal hernias originate, as well as the right femoral space 28, where femoral hernias can occur through the femoral canal (a space bordered by the inguinal ligament superiorly, femoral vein laterally, and Cooper's ligament inferiorly). Implantable prostheses for both direct and indirect hernias (discussed below) can also be used for the repair of femoral hernias.

The right-side direct prosthesis 1, e.g., hernia mesh, is configured to be centered over the right iliac vessels and extend medially to provide more coverage, due to its size and shape, than what is currently offered by existing implantable products. For example, the prosthesis 1 may extend medially to the symphysis pubis. The prosthesis 1 provides greater overlap over the floor of the inguinal canal, allowing for a more adequate repair of a direct inguinal hernia. The prosthesis 1 also extends laterally and is further configured to provide the required coverage of the indirect hernia space (internal inguinal ring 26) for a complete inguinal hernia repair.

Turning now to FIGS. 4-6, an embodiment of an implantable prosthesis 1 a designed for a left-sided direct hernia is shown. Prosthesis 1 a is largely similar to prosthesis 1, as described in detail hereinabove.

The implantable prosthesis 1 a includes a piece 2 a of biocompatible material, such as a textile or mesh, defined by an outer edge 7 a. The prosthesis 1 a (and/or biocompatible piece 2 a) displays a three-dimensional shape (FIG. 5).

FIG. 4 depicts a medial-lateral axis A₂ and a superior-inferior axis B₂ across a first face 2 a′ of the biocompatible piece 2 a (and/or prosthesis 1 a). The biocompatible piece 2 a has a lateral side 3 a, a medial side 4 a, a superior side 5 a, and an inferior side 6 a. The piece 2 a also includes a second face 2 a″ opposite the first face 2 a′ (FIG. 5).

The outer edge 7 a of the biocompatible piece 2 a includes a convex lateral outer edge 8 a, a medial outer edge 9 a, a superior outer edge 10 a, and a concave inferior outer edge 11 a. The convex lateral outer edge 8 a is opposite the medial outer edge 9 a along the medial-lateral axis A₂. The superior outer edge 10 a is opposite the wavy inferior edge 11 a along the superior-inferior axis B₂. The concave inferior outer edge 11 a includes at least one concavity 11 a′. The inferior outer edge 11 a connects an inferior portion 8 a″ of the convex lateral outer edge 8 a to an inferior portion 9 a″ of the medial outer edge 9 a. The superior outer edge 10 a connects a superior portion 8 a′ of the convex lateral outer edge 8 a to a superior portion 9 a′ of the medial outer edge 9 a.

As depicted in FIG. 4, in some embodiments, the outer edge 7 a of the biocompatible piece 2 a includes a convex lateral outer edge 8 a, a concave medial outer edge 9 a, a concave inferior outer edge 11 a, and superior outer edge 10 a configured to widen the piece 2 a in a medial direction. In such embodiments, the widening superior outer edge 10 a may be of any configuration (e.g., one or more generally linear edges, convex edges, or combinations thereof) suitable for rendering the medial side 4 a of the piece 2 a (and/or prosthesis 1 a) wider than the lateral side 3 a.

As further depicted in FIG. 4, in some embodiments, the biocompatible piece 2 a is configured to repair a hernia, such as a direct inguinal hernia, and includes a longest length L₁ and a widest width W₁. The longest length L₁ extends between the convex lateral outer edge 8 a and the medial outer edge 9 a. The widest width W₁ is located on the medial side 4 a of the piece 2 a of the prosthesis 1 a designed for direct inguinal hernia repair. The widest width W₁ extends between the superior outer edge 10 a and the inferior outer edge 11 a.

The longest length L₁ of the piece 2 a (and/or prosthesis 1 a) can be between about 14 cm and about 17 cm, and the widest width W₁ of the piece 2 a (and/or prosthesis 1 a) can be between about 10 cm and about 12 cm. For example, a medium size direct hernia prosthesis 1 a can be about 14 cm×10 cm (L₁×W₁). A large size direct hernia prosthesis 1 a can be about 16 cm×11 cm (L₁×W₁). Finally, an extra-large size direct hernia prosthesis 1 a can be 17 cm by 12 cm (L₁×W₁).

The biocompatible piece 2 a also includes an upper portion 12 a, a lower portion 14 a, an interior edge 16 a extending from the lateral side 3 a to the medial side 4 a, and a crease portion 18 a. The upper portion 12 a extends from the lateral side 3 a to the medial side 4 a across at least the superior side 5 a of the piece 2 a. The upper portion 12 a also defines a curved body 13 a (FIG. 5) having a height H₁ (transverse to the length and width). The curved body 13 a (and/or upper body portion 12 a) begins at the superior outer edge 10 a and extends with a raised curved trajectory towards the interior edge 16 a and to a height H₁ of the interior edge 16 a. The curved body 13 a (and/or upper portion 12 a) may also radiate medially along the superior outer edge 10 a to at least the superior portion 9 a′ of the medial outer edge 9 a and/or radiate laterally along the superior outer edge 10 a to at least the superior portion 8 a′ of the convex lateral outer edge 8 a. In some embodiments, the upper portion 12 a may be a spherical cap.

The lower portion 14 a defines a wavy-shaped wall 15 a extending between the interior edge 16 a and the concave inferior outer edge 11 a. The lower portion 14 a extends between the lateral side 3 a, and particularly the inferior portion 8 a″ of the convex lateral outer edge 8 a, to the medial side 4 a, and particularly the inferior portion 9 a″ of the medial outer edge 9 a.

The interior edge 16 a defines a crease or fold extending from the lateral side 3 a to the medial side 4 a. As shown in FIG. 4, the interior edge 16 a extends from or near a portion of the convex lateral outer edge 8 a positioned inferior to the longest length L₁ of the piece 2 a. The interior edge 16 a may be rounded or non-linear, as shown, extending along and/or across at least a portion of the longest length L₁.

The interior edge 16 a includes a first and second bifurcated end portion 16 a′, 16 a″ on the medial side 4 a of the piece 2 a. The first and second bifurcated end portions 16 a′, 16 a″ generally define the crease portion 18 a therebetween, with or without a portion of the medial outer edge 9 a, or particularly without the inferior portion 9 a″ of the medial edge 9 a. In some embodiments, at least one, if not both, of the first and second bifurcated end portions 16 a′, 16 a″ of the interior edge 16 a are rounded or non-linear. In some embodiments, at least one, if not both, of the first and second bifurcated end portions 16 a′, 16 a″ of the interior edge 16 a may not extend to the medial outer edge 9 a.

The upper portion 12 a of the piece 2 a may have a surface area which is greater than a surface area of the lower portion 14 a, the crease portion 18 a, or both. The upper portion 12 a may represent a majority of the surface area of the piece 2 a. In some embodiments, the upper portion 12 a may represent from about 50% to about 80% of the surface area of the piece 2 a. In some embodiments, the upper portion 12 a may represent from about 55% to about 75% of the surface area of the piece 2 a. In some embodiments, the upper portion 12 a may represent from about 60% to about 70% of the surface area of the piece 2 a.

The lower portion 14 a of the piece 2 a may have a surface area which is less than a surface area of the upper portion 12 a, or greater than a surface area of the crease portion 18 a, or both. The lower portion 14 a may represent from about 15% to about 45% of the surface area of the piece 2 a. In some embodiments, the lower portion 14 a may represent from about 20% to about 40% of the surface area of the piece 2 a. In some embodiments, the lower portion 14 a may represent from about 25% to about 35% of the surface area of the piece 2 a.

As further illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5, the lower portion 14 a of the piece 2 a can have a raised, wavy section 15 a designed to accommodate the iliac vessels as they course deep (posterior) to the prosthesis 1 a. The first and second bifurcated end portions 16 a′, 16 a″ of crease 16 a allows at least a portion, if not a majority, of the crease portion 18 a of the piece 2 a to sit in the space of Retzius, between the bladder and Cooper's ligament (shown to better advantage in FIG. 6). In addition, the curved body 13 a of the upper portion 12 a, shown in FIG. 5, contributes to the 3D design of the piece 2 a and allows for an anatomical fit in the groin.

FIG. 6 illustrates the left-side direct prosthesis 1 a, e.g., hernia mesh, within the anatomical context in which it is designed to be implanted. The prosthesis 1 a covers the left myopectineal orifice 22 a (dashed line) of the groin, which includes the entire left inguinal space. The “direct” nature of the prosthesis 1 a offers preferential coverage over the floor of the left inguinal canal (Hesselbach's triangle) 24 a, from which direct hernias originate. For example, the widest width W₁ of the direct prosthesis 1 a is located on the medial side 4 a of the prosthesis 1 a. Also shown in FIG. 6 is the left internal inguinal ring 26 a, from which indirect inguinal hernias originate, as well as the left femoral space 28 a, where femoral hernias can occur through the femoral canal (a space bordered by the inguinal ligament superiorly, femoral vein laterally, and Cooper's ligament inferiorly). Implantable prostheses for both direct and indirect hernias (discussed below) can be used for the repair of femoral hernias.

The left-side direct prosthesis 1 a, e.g., hernia mesh, is configured to be centered over the left iliac vessels and extend medially to provide more coverage, due to its size and shape, than what is currently offered by existing implantable products. For example, the prosthesis 1 a may extend medially to the symphysis pubis. The prosthesis 1 a, e.g., hernia mesh, provides greater overlap over the floor of the inguinal canal, allowing for a more adequate repair of a direct inguinal hernia. The prosthesis 1 a also extends laterally and is further configured to provide the required coverage of the indirect hernia space (internal inguinal ring 26 a) for a complete inguinal hernia repair.

Turning now to FIGS. 7-9, in some embodiments, an implantable prosthesis 31 designed for a right-sided hernia is shown. The implantable prosthesis 31 includes a piece 32 of biocompatible material, such as a textile or mesh, defined by an outer edge 37. The prosthesis 31 (and/or biocompatible piece 32) displays a three-dimensional shape (FIG. 8).

FIG. 7 depicts a medial-lateral axis A₃ and a superior-inferior axis B₃ across a first face 32′ of the biocompatible piece 32 (and/or prosthesis 31). The biocompatible piece 32 has a lateral side 33, a medial side 34, a superior side 35, and an inferior side 36. The piece 32 also includes a second face 32″ opposite the first face 32′ (FIG. 8).

The outer edge 37 of the prosthesis 31 includes a convex lateral outer edge 38, a medial outer edge 39 opposite the lateral edge 38, a concave superior outer edge 40 connecting a superior portion 38′ of the convex lateral outer edge 38 to a superior portion 39′ of the medial outer edge 39, and a concave inferior outer edge 41 opposite the superior outer edge 40. The inferior outer edge 41 connecting an inferior portion 38″ of the convex lateral outer edge 38 to an inferior portion 39″ of the medial outer edge 39.

As depicted in FIG. 7, in some embodiments, the outer edge 37 of the prosthesis 31 includes a convex lateral outer edge 38, a generally linear or slightly concave medial outer edge 39, a concave superior outer edge 40, and a concave inferior outer edge 41. The concave portions 40′, 41′ of the superior and inferior outer edges 40, 41 are positioned on the medial side 34 of the piece 32 to create a shortest width W₃ between the superior and inferior outer edges 40, 41 on the medial side 34 of the piece 32.

As further depicted in FIG. 7, in some embodiments, the biocompatible piece 32 is configured to repair a hernia, such as an indirect inguinal hernia, and includes a longest length L₂ and a widest width W₂. The longest length L₂ extends between the convex lateral outer edge 38 and the medial outer edge 39. The widest width W₂ is located on the lateral side 33 of the piece 32 extending between the superior outer edge 40 and the wavy inferior outer edge 41.

The longest length L₂ of the prosthesis 31, e.g., surgical mesh, can be between about 14 cm and about 17 cm, and the widest width W₂ of the piece 32 can be between about 10 cm and about 12 cm. For example, a medium size left-side indirect hernia prosthesis 31 can be about 14 cm×10 cm (L₂×W₂). A large size left-side indirect hernia prosthesis 31 can be about 16 cm×11 cm (L₂×W₂). Finally, an extra-large size left-side indirect hernia prosthesis 31 can be 17 cm by 12 cm (L₂×W₂).

The biocompatible piece 32 includes an upper portion 42, a lower portion 44, an interior edge 46 extending from the lateral side 33 to the medial side 34, and a crease portion 48. The upper portion 42 extends from the lateral side 33 to the medial side 34 across at least the superior side 35 of the piece 32. The upper portion 42 also defines a curved body 43 (FIG. 8) having a height H₂ transverse to the length and width of the piece 32. The curved body 43 (and/or upper portion 42) begins at the superior outer edge 40 and extends with a raised curved trajectory towards the interior edge 46 and to a height H₂ of the interior edge 46. The curved body 43 (and/or upper portion 42) may also radiate medially along the superior outer edge 40 to at least the superior portion 39′ of the medial outer edge 39 and/or radiate laterally along the superior outer edge 40 to at least the superior portion 38′ of the convex lateral outer edge 38. In some embodiments, the upper portion 42 may be a spherical cap.

The lower portion 44 defines a wavy-shaped wall 45 extending between the interior edge 46 and the concave inferior outer edge 41. The lower portion 44 extends from the lateral side 33, and particularly from the inferior portion 38″ of the convex lateral outer edge 38, to the medial side 34, and particularly not to the medial outer edge 39.

The interior edge 46 defines a crease or fold extending from the lateral side 33 to the medial side 34. As shown in FIG. 7, the interior edge 46 extends from or near a portion of the convex lateral outer edge 38 positioned inferior to the longest length L₂ of the piece 32. The interior edge 46 may be rounded or non-linear, as shown, extending along and/or across at least a portion of the longest length L₂.

The interior edge 46 includes a first and second bifurcated portion 46′, 46″ on the medial side 34 of the piece 32. The first and second bifurcated portions 46′, 46″ generally define the crease portion 48 therebetween, with or without a portion of the medial outer edge 39. In some embodiments, at least one, if not both, of the first and second bifurcated portions 46′, 46″ of the interior edge 46 are rounded or non-linear. In some embodiments, at least one, if not both, of the first and second bifurcated portions 46′, 46″ of the interior edge 46 may not extend to the medial outer edge 39.

The upper portion 42 of the piece may have a surface area which is greater than a surface area of the lower portion 44 and/or the crease portion 48. The upper portion 42 may represent a majority of the surface area of the piece 32. In some embodiments, the upper portion 42 may represent from about 50% to about 80% of the surface area of the piece 32. In some embodiments, the upper portion 42 may represent from about 55% to about 75% of the surface area of the piece 32. In some embodiments, the upper portion 42 may represent from about 60% to about 70% of the surface area of the piece 32.

As further illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8, the lower portion 44 of the prosthesis 31 (and/or piece 32) can have a raised, wavy section 45 designed to accommodate the iliac vessels as they course deep (posterior) to the prosthesis 31. The bifurcated end portions 46′, 46″ of the crease 46 allows at least a portion, if not a majority, of the crease portion 48 of the prosthesis 31 to sit in the space of Retzius, between the bladder and Cooper's ligament (shown to better advantage in FIG. 9). In addition, the curved body 43, shown in FIG. 8, contributes to the 3D design of the prosthesis 31 and allows for an anatomical fit in the groin.

FIG. 9 illustrates the right-side indirect prosthesis 31, e.g., hernia mesh, within the anatomical context in which it is designed to be implanted. The prosthesis 31 covers the right myopectineal orifice 22 a (dashed line) of the groin, which includes the entire right inguinal space. The “indirect” nature of the prosthesis 31 offers preferential coverage laterally over the right internal inguinal ring 26 a, from which indirect inguinal hernias originate. For example, the widest width W₂ of the indirect prosthesis 31 a is located on the lateral side 33 of the prosthesis 31. Also, the medial side 34 of the prosthesis 31 has the smallest width W₃ to reduce the amount of biocompatible material implanted while forming at least one concavity along the superior edge 40 to avoid or reduce interaction and/or irritation with the epigastric vessels 27 a. Also shown in FIG. 9 is the right inguinal canal (Hesselbach's triangle) 24 a, from which direct hernias originate, as well as the right femoral space 28 a, where femoral hernias can occur through the femoral canal (a space bordered by the inguinal ligament superiorly, femoral vein laterally, and Cooper's ligament inferiorly). Implantable prostheses for both direct and indirect hernias can be used for the repair of femoral hernias.

The right-side indirect prosthesis 31, e.g., hernia mesh, is configured to be centered over the right iliac vessels and extend laterally to provide more coverage, due to its size and shape, than what is currently offered by existing prosthetic products. The prosthesis 31 provides greater overlap of the internal inguinal ring 46 a, allowing for a more adequate repair of an indirect inguinal hernia. The prosthesis 31 also extends medially and is further configured to provide the required coverage of the direct hernia space (floor of the inguinal canal) for a complete inguinal hernia repair.

Turning now to FIGS. 10-12, in some embodiments, an implantable prosthesis 31 a, e.g., hernia mesh, is designed for a left-sided indirect hernia repair. Prosthesis 31 a is largely similar to prosthesis 31, as described in detail hereinabove.

FIG. 10 depicts a medial-lateral axis A₄ and a superior-inferior axis B₄ across a first face 32 a′ of the biocompatible piece 32 a (and/or prosthesis 31 a). The biocompatible piece 32 a has a lateral side 33 a, a medial side 34 a, a superior side 35 a, and an inferior side 36 a. The piece 32 a also includes a second face 32 a″ opposite the first face 32 a′ (FIG. 11).

The outer edge 37 a of the prosthesis 31 a includes a convex lateral outer edge 38 a, a medial outer edge 39 a opposite the lateral edge 38 a, a superior outer edge 40 a connecting a superior portion 38 a′ of the convex lateral outer edge 38 a to a superior portion 39 a′ of the medial outer edge 39 a, and a concave inferior outer edge 41 a opposite the superior outer edge 40 a. The concave inferior outer edge 41 a includes at least one concavity 41 a′. The inferior outer edge 41 a connecting an inferior portion 38 a″ of the convex lateral outer edge 38 a to an inferior portion 39 a″ of the medial outer edge 39 a.

As depicted in FIG. 10, in some embodiments, the outer edge 37 a of the prosthesis 31 a includes a convex lateral outer edge 38 a, a generally linear or slightly concave medial outer edge 39 a, a concave superior outer edge 40 a, and a concave inferior outer edge 41 a. The concave portions 40 a′, 41 a′ of the superior and inferior outer edges 40 a, 41 a are positioned on the medial side 34 a of the piece 32 a to create a shortest width W₃ between the superior and inferior outer edges 40 a, 41 a on the medial side 34 a of the piece 32 a.

As further depicted in FIG. 10, in some embodiments, the biocompatible piece 32 a is configured to repair a hernia, such as an indirect inguinal hernia, and includes a longest length L₂ and a widest width W₂. The longest length L₂ extends between the convex lateral outer edge 38 a and the medial outer edge 39 a. The widest width W₂ is located on the lateral side 33 a of the piece 32 a extending between the superior outer edge 40 a and the inferior outer edge 41 a.

The longest length L₂ of the prosthesis 31 a, e.g., surgical mesh, can be between about 14 cm and about 17 cm, and the widest width W₂ of the prosthesis 31 a can be between about 10 cm and about 12 cm. For example, a medium size left-side indirect hernia prosthesis 31 a can be about 14 cm×10 cm (L₂×W₂). A large size left-side indirect hernia prosthesis 31 a can be about 16 cm×11 cm (L₂×W₂). Finally, an extra-large size left-side indirect hernia prosthesis 31 a can be 17 cm by 12 cm (L₂×W₂).

The biocompatible piece 32 a includes an upper portion 42 a, a lower portion 44 a, an interior edge 46 a extending from the lateral side 33 a to the medial side 34 a, and a crease portion 48 a. The upper portion 42 a extends from the lateral side 33 a to the medial side 34 a across at least the superior side 35 a of the piece 32 a. The upper portion 42 a also defines a curved body 43 a (FIG. 11) having a height H₂ transverse to the length and width of the piece 32 a. The curved body 43 a (and/or upper portion 42 a) begins at the superior outer edge 40 a and extends with a raised curved trajectory towards the interior edge 46 a and to a height H₂ of the interior edge 46 a. The curved body 43 a (and/or upper portion 42 a) may also radiate medially along the superior outer edge 40 a to at least the superior portion 39 a′ of the medial outer edge 39 a and/or radiate laterally along the superior outer edge 40 a to at least the superior portion 38 a′ of the convex lateral outer edge 38 a. In some embodiments, the upper portion 42 a may be a spherical cap.

The lower portion 44 a defines a wavy-shaped wall 45 a extending between the interior edge 46 a and the inferior outer edge 41 a. The lower portion 44 a extends from the lateral side 33 a, and particularly from the inferior portion 38 a″ of the convex lateral outer edge 38 a, to the medial side 34 a, and particularly not to the medial outer edge 39 a.

The interior edge 46 a defines a crease or fold extending from the lateral side 33 a to the medial side 34 a. As shown in FIG. 10, the interior edge 46 a extends from or near a portion of the convex lateral outer edge 38 a positioned inferior to the longest length L₂ of the piece 32 a. The interior edge 46 a may be rounded or non-linear, as shown, extending along and/or across at least a portion of the longest length L₂.

The interior edge 46 a includes a first and second bifurcated portion 46 a′, 46 a″ on the medial side 34 a of the piece 32 a. The first and second bifurcated portions 46 a′, 46 a″ generally define the crease portion 48 a therebetween, with or without a portion of the medial outer edge 39 a. In some embodiments, at least one, if not both, of the first and second bifurcated portions 46 a′, 46 a″ of the interior edge 46 a are rounded or non-linear. In some embodiments, at least one, if not both, of the first and second bifurcated portions 46 a′, 46 a″ of the interior edge 46 a may not extend to the medial outer edge 39 a.

The upper portion 42 a of the piece may have a surface area which is greater than a surface area of the lower portion 44 a and/or the crease portion 48 a. The upper portion 42 a may represent a majority of the surface area of the piece 32 a. In some embodiments, the upper portion 42 a may represent from about 50% to about 80% of the surface area of the piece 32 a. In some embodiments, the upper portion 42 a may represent from about 55% to about 75% of the surface area of the piece 32 a. In some embodiments, the upper portion 42 a may represent from about 60% to about 70% of the surface area of the piece 32 a.

As further illustrated in FIGS. 10 and 11, the lower portion 44 of the prosthesis 31 a (and/or piece 32 a) can have a raised, wavy section 45 a designed to accommodate the iliac vessels as they course deep (posterior) to the prosthesis 31 a. The bifurcated end portions 46 a′, 46 a″ of the crease 46 a allows at least a portion, if not a majority, of the crease portion 48 a of the prosthesis 31 a to sit in the space of Retzius, between the bladder and Cooper's ligament (shown to better advantage in FIG. 12). In addition, the curved body 43 a, shown in FIG. 11, contributes to the 3D design of the prosthesis 31 a and allows for an anatomical fit in the groin.

FIG. 12 illustrates the left-side indirect hernia prosthesis 31 a, e.g., surgical mesh, within the anatomical context in which it is designed to be implanted. The prosthesis 31 a covers the left myopectineal orifice 42 a (dashed line) of the groin, which includes the entire left inguinal space. The “indirect” nature of the prosthesis 31 a offers preferential coverage laterally over the left internal inguinal ring 46 a, from which indirect inguinal hernias originate. Also shown in FIG. 12 is the left inguinal canal (Hesselbach's triangle) 44 a, from which direct hernias originate, as well as the left femoral space 48 a, where femoral hernias can occur through the femoral canal (a space bordered by the inguinal ligament superiorly, femoral vein laterally, and Cooper's ligament inferiorly). Implantable prostheses for both direct and indirect hernias can be used for the repair of femoral hernias.

The left-side indirect hernia prosthesis 31 a is configured to be centered over the left iliac vessels and extend laterally to provide more coverage, due to its size and shape, than what is currently offered by existing mesh products. The prosthesis 31 a provides greater overlap of the internal inguinal ring 46 a, allowing for a more adequate repair of an indirect inguinal hernia. The prosthesis 31 a also extends medially and is further configured to provide the required coverage of the direct hernia space (floor of the inguinal canal) for a complete inguinal hernia repair.

Turning now to FIGS. 13-15, an embodiment of an implantable prosthesis 51 including a single biocompatible piece 52, e.g., prosthetic mesh, designed for a bilateral hernia is shown. The prosthesis 51 (and/or piece 52) is designed to anatomically cover both the right and left hernia spaces (bilateral myopectineal orifices). This single piece design allows for increased stability of the prosthesis 51, with less need for fixation and less migration of the prosthesis 51. In some embodiments, however, the prosthesis 51 may be constructed from multiple pieces attached to one another via any suitable attachment means, such as barbs, adhesives, stitching, melt-bonding, and the like. The bilateral hernia prosthesis 51 has a 3D, anatomical shape conforming to the pelvis and bilateral groins, covering bilateral myopectineal orifices as well as the space of Retzius. The bilateral hernia prosthesis 51 is configured to be inserted through a trocar and to later self-deploy back to its intended 3D shape. The bilateral hernia prosthesis 51 can be used to repair two direct, two indirect, or any combination of direct and indirect hernias.

FIG. 13 depicts an implantable prosthesis 51 including a biocompatible piece of material 52 defined by an outer edge 57 and displaying a three-dimensional shape (FIGS. 14A and 14B). The outer edge 57 includes a first convex outer lateral edge 58 a, a second convex lateral edge 58 opposite the first convex outer lateral edge 58 a, a superior outer edge 60, and an inferior outer edge 61 opposite the superior outer edge 60. The inferior outer edge 61 including at least one, if not two or more, concave portion 61′, 61″.

The biocompatible piece 52 includes a first section 52 _(l) and a second section 52 _(r) extending across the face of the piece 52. The first and second sections 52 _(l), 52 _(r) being adjacent to each other across the face of the prosthesis 51.

FIG. 13 depicts a first medial-lateral axis A₅ and a first superior-inferior axis B₅ across the first section 52 _(l) of the biocompatible piece 52 (and/or prosthesis 51) and a second medial-lateral axis A₆ and a second superior-inferior axis B₆ across the second section 52 _(r) of the biocompatible piece 52 (and/or prosthesis 51). The first and second medial-lateral axis A₅, A₆ being generally coplanar and the first and second superior-inferior axis B₅, B₆ being generally parallel to each other.

The first section 52 _(l) includes a first lateral side 53 a, a first medial side 54 a, a first superior side 55 a and a first inferior side 56 a. The second section 52 _(r) includes a second lateral side 53, a second medial side 54, a second superior side 55 and a second inferior side 56. The first medial side 54 a of the first section 52 _(l) abuts and is attached to the second medial side 54 of the second section 52 _(r) to form a central band 54′ of the single and/or one-piece prosthesis 51.

The first section 52 _(l) further includes a first upper portion 62 a, a first lower portion 64 a, a first interior edge 66 a and a first crease portion 68 a. The first upper portion 62 a defines a curved body having a height H₃ transverse to the length and width (FIG. 14A). The first upper portion 62 a begins at a first part 60′ of the superior outer edge 60 and extends with a raised curved trajectory towards the first interior edge 66 a. In some embodiments, the first upper portion 62 a may be a spherical cap.

The first lower portion 64 a extends between the first interior edge 66 a and a first part 61 a of the inferior outer edge 61 a. The first lower portion 64 a forming a first wavy-shaped wall 65 a. The first crease portion 68 a is defined by the first and second bifurcated end portions 66 a′, 66 a″ of the first interior edge 66 a on the first medial side 54 a.

The second section 52 _(r) further includes a second upper portion 62, a second lower portion 64, a second interior edge 66 and a second crease portion 68. The second upper portion 62 defines a curved body having a height H₄ transverse to the length and width (FIG. 14B). The second upper portion 62 begins at a second part 60″ of the superior outer edge 60 and extends with a raised curved trajectory towards the second interior edge 66. In some embodiments, the second upper portion 62 may be a spherical cap.

In some embodiments, the height H₃ of the first section and the height H₄ of the second section may be equal. In some embodiments, the height H₃ of the first section may be greater than the height H₄ of the second section. In some embodiments, the height H₃ of the first section may be less than the height H₄ of the second section.

The second lower portion 64 extends between the second interior edge 66 and a second part 61 b of the inferior outer edge 61. The second lower portion 64 forms a second wavy-shaped wall 65. The second crease portion 68 is defined by a third and fourth bifurcated end portions 66′, 66″ of the second interior edge 66 on the second medial side 54.

As further depicted in FIG. 13, in some embodiments, the biocompatible piece 52 is configured to repair a hernia, such as a direct inguinal hernia, and includes a longest length L₄ and a widest width W₄. The longest length L₄ extends between the first convex lateral outer edge 58 a on the first section 52 _(l) of the piece 52 and the second opposite convex lateral outer edge 58 on the second section 52 _(r) of the piece 52. The widest width W₄ is located on the first and/or second medial side 54 a, 54 of the first and/or second sections 52 _(l), 52 _(r).

The longest length L₄ of the piece 52 (and/or prosthesis 51) can be between about 28 cm and about 33 cm, and the widest width W₄ of the piece 52 (and/or prosthesis 51) can be between about 10 cm and about 12 cm. For example, a medium size bilateral hernia prosthesis 51 can be about 28 cm×10 cm (L₄×W₄). A large size bilateral hernia prosthesis 51 can be about 31 cm×11 cm (L₄×W₄). Finally, an extra-large size bilateral hernia prosthesis 51 can be 33 cm by 12 cm ((L₄×W₄).

In some embodiments, the first interior edge 66 a may extend from or near a portion of the first convex lateral edge 58 a positioned inferior to the longest length L₄ and/or the second interior edge 66 may extend from or near a portion of the second convex lateral edge 58 positioned inferior to the longest length L₄.

In some embodiments, the first interior edge 66 a may extend from or near a portion of the first convex lateral edge 58 a positioned along the longest length L₄ and/or the second interior edge 66 may extend from or near a portion of the second convex lateral edge 58 along the longest length L₄.

As further illustrated in FIGS. 13 and 14, the first and second lower portions 64 a, 64 of the 3D prosthesis 51 on each side can have a raised, wavy section 65 a, 65 designed to accommodate the iliac vessels as they course deep (posterior) to the prosthesis 51. The first and second crease portions 58 a, 58 allows the lower medial aspect of the prosthesis 51 to sit in the space of Retzius, between the bladder and Cooper's ligament (shown to better advantage in FIG. 15). In addition, the curved body 63′, shown in FIG. 14, contributes to the 3D design of the prosthesis 51 and allows for an anatomical fit in the groin.

FIG. 15 illustrates the bilateral hernia prosthesis 51, e.g., surgical mesh, within the anatomical context in which it is designed to be implanted. The prosthesis 51 covers both the left and right myopectineal orifices of the groin, which includes the entire right and lefts inguinal space. The “bilateral” nature of the prosthesis 51 offers preferential coverage both medially over the floor of the inguinal canals and laterally over the internal inguinal rings. The bilateral hernia prosthesis 51 also provides coverage over the right and left femoral canals and can be used for the repair of bilateral femoral hernias.

Turning now to FIG. 16, an embodiment of a bilateral implantable prosthesis 71 including a single biocompatible piece 72, e.g., prosthetic mesh, designed for bilateral indirect hernias is shown. The prosthesis 71 (and/or piece 72) is designed to anatomically cover both the right and left hernia spaces (bilateral myopectineal orifices). This single piece design allows for increased stability of the prosthesis 71, with less need for fixation and less migration of the prosthesis 71. In some embodiments, however, the prosthesis 71 may be constructed from multiple pieces attached to one another via any suitable attachment means, such as barbs, adhesives, stitching, melt-bonding, and the like. The bilateral hernia prosthesis 71 has a 3D, anatomical shape conforming to the pelvis and bilateral groins, covering bilateral myopectineal orifices as well as the space of Retzius. The bilateral indirect hernia prosthesis 71 is configured to be inserted through a trocar and to later self-deploy back to its intended 3D shape. The bilateral indirect hernia prosthesis 71 can be used to repair two indirect hernias.

FIG. 16 depicts an implantable prosthesis 71 including a biocompatible piece of material 72 defined by an outer edge 77 and displaying a three-dimensional shape. The outer edge 77 includes a first convex outer lateral edge 78 a, a second convex lateral edge 78 opposite the first convex outer lateral edge 78 a, a superior outer edge 80, and an inferior outer edge 81 opposite the superior outer edge 80. The superior outer edge 80 includes at least one, if not two or more, concave portions 80′, 80″. The inferior outer edge 81 also includes at least one, if not two or more, concave portions 81′, 81″. In some embodiments, the concave portions of the superior outer edge are aligned with the concave portions of the inferior outer edge along a superior-inferior axis to be symmetrical.

The biocompatible piece 72 includes a first section 72 _(l) and a second section 72 _(r) extending across the face of the piece 72. The first and second sections 72 _(l), 72 _(r) being adjacent to each other across the face of the prosthesis 71.

FIG. 16 depicts a first medial-lateral axis A₇ and a first superior-inferior axis B₇ across the first section 72 _(l) of the biocompatible piece 72 (and/or prosthesis 71) and a second medial-lateral axis A₈ and a second superior-inferior axis B₈ across the second section 72 _(r) of the biocompatible piece 72 (and/or prosthesis 71). The first and second medial-lateral axis A₇, A₈ being generally coplanar and the first and second superior-inferior axis B₇, B₈ being generally parallel to each other.

The first section 72 _(l) includes a first lateral side 73 a, a first medial side 74 a, a first superior side 75 a and a first inferior side 76 a. The second section 72 _(r) includes a second lateral side 73, a second medial side 74, a second superior side 75 and a second inferior side 76. The first medial side 74 a of the first section 72 _(l) abuts and is attached to the second medial side 74 of the second section 72 _(r) to form a central band 74′ of the single and/or one-piece prosthesis 71.

The first section 72 _(l) further includes a first upper portion 82 a, a first lower portion 84 a, a first interior edge 86 a and a first crease portion 88 a. The first upper portion 82 a defines a curved body having a height H₃ transverse to the length and width. The first upper portion 82 a begins at a first part 80 a of the superior outer edge 80 and extends with a raised curved trajectory towards the first interior edge 86 a. In some embodiments, the first upper portion 82 a may be a spherical cap.

The first lower portion 84 a extends between the first interior edge 86 a and a first part 81 a of the inferior outer edge 81. The first lower portion 84 a forming a first wavy-shaped wall. The first crease portion 88 a is defined by the first and second bifurcated end portions 86 a′, 86 a″ of the first interior edge 86 a on the first medial side 74 a.

The second section 72 _(r) further includes a second upper portion 82, a second lower portion 84, a second interior edge 86 and a second crease portion 88. The second upper portion 82 defines a curved body having a height H₄ transverse to the length and width. The second upper portion 82 begins at a second part 80 b of the superior outer edge 80 and extends with a raised curved trajectory towards the second interior edge 86. In some embodiments, the second upper portion 82 may be a spherical cap.

The second lower portion 84 extends between the second interior edge 86 and a second part 81 b of the inferior outer edge 81. The second lower portion 84 forms a second wavy-shaped wall. The second crease portion 88 is defined by a third and fourth bifurcated end portions 86′, 86″ of the second interior edge 86 on the second medial side 74.

As further depicted in FIG. 16, in some embodiments, the biocompatible piece 72 is configured to repair a hernia, such as an indirect inguinal hernia, and includes a longest length L₅ and a widest width W₅. The longest length L₅ extends between the first convex lateral outer edge 78 a on the first section 72 _(l) of the piece 72 and the second opposite convex lateral outer edge 78 on the second section 72 _(r) of the piece 72. The widest width W₅ is located on the first and/or second medial side 74 a, 74 of the first and/or second sections 72 _(l), 72 _(r).

The longest length L₅ of the piece 72 (and/or prosthesis 71) can be between about 28 cm and about 33 cm, and the widest width W₅ of the piece 72 (and/or prosthesis 71) can be between about 10 cm and about 12 cm. For example, a medium size bilateral hernia prosthesis 71 can be about 28 cm×10 cm (L₅×W₅). A large size bilateral hernia prosthesis 71 can be about 31 cm×11 cm (L₅×W₅). Finally, an extra-large size bilateral hernia prosthesis 71 can be 33 cm by 12 cm (L₅×W₅).

In some embodiments, the first interior edge 86 a may extend from or near a portion of the first convex lateral edge 78 a positioned inferior to the longest length L₅ and/or the second interior edge 86 may extend from or near a portion of the second convex lateral edge 78 positioned inferior to the longest length L₅.

In some embodiments, the first interior edge 86 a may extend from or near a portion of the first convex lateral edge 78 a positioned along the longest length L₅ and/or the second interior edge 86 may extend from or near a portion of the second convex lateral edge 78 along the longest length L₅.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 16, a bilateral implantable prosthesis 71 may be configured to treat bilateral indirect hernias. In such embodiments, the first and second sections 72 _(l), 72 _(r) may each be configured similar h as the prostheses 31, 31 a, of FIGS. 6 and 9. The bilateral indirect prosthesis 71 is defined by an outer edge 71 including a superior outer edge 80 including two or more concave edges, a wavy inferior outer edge 81 and two opposite convex lateral edges 78 a, 78.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 17A, a bilateral implantable prosthesis 91 a configured to treat an indirect hernia and a direct hernia on opposite sides of a patient is shown. The prosthesis 91 a may include a first section 72 _(l) configured to treat the indirect hernia (as shown and described herein with reference to FIG. 16) and a second section 52 _(r) configured to treat a direct hernia (as shown and described herein with reference to FIG. 13). Each section being largely similar to the first and second sections 72 _(l), 52 _(r) of FIGS. 16 and 15, respectively.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 17B, a bilateral implantable prosthesis 91 b configured to treat a direct hernia and an indirect hernia on opposite sides of a patient is shown. The prosthesis 91 b may include a first section 52 _(l) configured to treat a direct hernia (as shown and described herein with reference to FIG. 13) and a second section 72 _(r) configured to treat an indirect hernia (as shown and described herein with reference to FIG. 16). Each section being largely similar to the first and second sections 52 _(l), 72 _(r) of FIGS. 15 and 16, respectively.

The prostheses described herein may further include a fastening means. The fastening means can be chosen from among elements that are integrally formed on the prosthesis, such as barbs, loops, and/or hooks. The fastening means designed to attach the prosthesis directly to tissue and/or to another prosthesis.

In some embodiments, the prostheses described herein may include one or more barbs. The barbs can be formed from yarns or portions of yarns that are woven and/or knitted directly with the yarns or portions of yarns used to form the prosthesis. One examples of such barbs is described in WO01/81667. Other examples for barbs, loops and hooks are also available. The one or more barbs may be positioned on any portion of the prostheses described herein.

As shown in FIG. 18, for example, in some embodiments one or more barbs 85 a, 85 may be positioned on at least one, if not both, of the lower portions 64 a, 64 of bilateral prosthesis 51. In other examples, the one or more barbs may be positioned on any of the lower portions 14, 14 a, 44, 44 a, 64, 64 a, of any of the prostheses 1, 1 a, 31, 31 a, 51, 71, 91 a, 91 b (as shown in FIGS. 1, 4, 7, 10, 13, 16, 17A, 17B) described herein.

As shown in FIG. 19, in some embodiments the one or more barbs 95 may be positioned on a first unilateral prosthesis. For example, the right-sided indirect prosthesis 31 of FIG. 7 may further include one or more barbs 95 on a medial side 34 and/or along a medial outer edge 39 thereof. In such embodiments, a second unilateral prosthesis, for example left sided indirect prosthesis 31 a of FIG. 10, may be combined with the first unilateral prosthesis, e.g., right-sided indirect prosthesis 31, by overlapping the medial sides 34, 34 a of each prosthesis such that the barb(s) 95 fasten the two medial sides 34, 43 a of the prostheses 31, 31 a to form a two-piece bilateral prosthesis. In other examples, the one or more barbs may be positioned on the medial side and/or along the medial outer edge of any of the unilateral prostheses 1, 1 a, 31, 31 a described herein, and combined with any other unilateral prostheses 1, 1 a, 31, 31 a described herein to form a two-piece bilateral prosthesis. The two-piece bilateral prosthesis maintains the ability to be separated back into two separate unilateral prostheses, if needed.

Although several embodiments have been described above with a certain degree of particularity, those skilled in the art could make numerous alterations to the disclosed embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure. It is intended that all matter contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative only and not limiting. Changes in detail or structure may be made without departing from the present teachings. The foregoing description and following claims are intended to cover all such modifications and variations.

Various embodiments are described herein of various apparatuses, systems, and methods. Numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the overall structure, function, manufacture, and use of the embodiments as described in the specification and illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It will be understood by those skilled in the art, however, that the embodiments may be practiced without such specific details. In other instances, well-known operations, components, and elements have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the embodiments described in the specification. Those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the embodiments described and illustrated herein are non-limiting examples, and thus it can be appreciated that the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein may be representative and do not necessarily limit the scope of the embodiments, the scope of which is defined solely by the appended claims.

Reference throughout the specification to “various embodiments,” “some embodiments,” “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” or the like, means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in various embodiments,” “in some embodiments,” “in one embodiment,” “in an embodiment,” or the like, in places throughout the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. Thus, the particular features, structures, or characteristics illustrated or described in connection with one embodiment may be combined, in whole or in part, with the features, structures, or characteristics of one or more other embodiments without limitation.

Unless explained otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood to one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. It will be appreciated that the terms “medial” and “lateral” may be used throughout the specification with reference to portions of an implantable prosthesis. The term “medial” refers to a portion of the implantable prosthetic or the body that lies or extends toward the median axis of the body, and the term “lateral” refers to a portion of the implantable prosthetic or the body that lies or extends toward the side. It will be further appreciated that for conciseness and clarity, anatomical spatial terms such as “superior,” “inferior,” “anterior,” and “posterior” may be used herein with respect to the illustrated embodiments. However, implantable prosthetics may be used in many orientations and positions, and these terms are not intended to be limiting and absolute.

To provide a more concise description, some of the quantitative expressions given herein are not qualified with the term “about.” It is understood that whether the term “about” is used explicitly or not, every quantity given herein is meant to refer to the actual given value, and it is also meant to refer to the approximation to such given value that would reasonably be inferred based on the ordinary skill in the art, including approximations due to the experimental and/or measurement conditions for such given value.

Any patent, publication, or other disclosure material, in whole or in part, that is said to be incorporated by reference herein is incorporated herein only to the extent that the incorporated materials does not conflict with existing definitions, statements, or other disclosure material set forth in this disclosure. As such, and to the extent necessary, the disclosure as explicitly set forth herein supersedes any conflicting material incorporated herein by reference. Any material, or portion thereof, that is said to be incorporated by reference herein, but which conflicts with existing definitions, statements, or other disclosure material set forth herein will only be incorporated to the extent that no conflict arises between that incorporated material and the existing disclosure material. 

What is claimed is:
 1. An implantable prosthesis for repairing a direct or indirect inguinal hernial defect comprising: a piece of biocompatible material having a preformed three-dimensional shape and defined by an outer edge, the piece having a lateral side and an opposite medial side extending along a medial-lateral axis and a superior side and an opposite inferior side extending along a superior-inferior axis, and the outer edge including a convex lateral outer edge, a medial outer edge, a superior outer edge configured to widen the piece in a medial direction, and an inferior outer edge including one or more concave portions, the piece including: an upper portion including a spherical cap extending between the superior outer edge and an interior edge extending from the lateral side to the medial side, the interior edge including first and second bifurcated portions on a medial end thereof, a lower portion extending between the interior edge and the inferior outer edge, the lower portion forming a wavy-shaped wall, and a crease portion on the medial side, the crease portion defined between the first and second bifurcated end portions on the medial end thereof.
 2. The implantable prosthesis according to claim 1, wherein superior outer edge is generally linear.
 3. The implantable prosthesis according to claim 2, wherein the piece further comprises a longest length and a widest width, the longest length extending between the convex lateral outer edge and the medial outer edge and the widest width located on the medial side of the piece extending between the superior outer edge and the inferior outer edge.
 4. The implantable prosthesis according to claim 3, wherein the interior edge extends from a portion of the convex lateral edge positioned inferior to the longest length.
 5. The implantable prosthesis according to claim 4, wherein the interior edge is a non-linear interior edge extending along or crossing over at least a portion of the longest length.
 6. The implantable prosthesis according to claim 4, wherein at least one of the first and second bifurcated portions of the interior edge are non-linear and do not extend to the medial outer edge.
 7. The implantable prosthesis according to claim 4, wherein the medial outer edge is a concave medial outer edge.
 8. The implantable prosthesis according to claim 1, further comprising one or more barbs positioned on a face of the piece.
 9. The implantable prosthesis according to claim 8, wherein the one or more barbs are positioned on at least a portion of the medial side of the piece along the medial outer edge, positioned on at least a portion of the lower portion of the piece along the inferior outer edge, or both.
 10. An implantable prosthesis for repairing an indirect inguinal hernial defect comprising: a piece of biocompatible material having a preformed three-dimensional shape and defined by an outer edge, the piece having a lateral side and an opposite medial side extending along a medial-lateral axis and a superior side and an opposite inferior side extending along a superior-inferior axis, and the outer edge including a convex lateral outer edge, a medial outer edge, a superior outer edge including one or more concave portions, and an inferior outer edge including one or more concave portions, the piece including: an upper portion including a spherical cap extending between the superior outer edge and an interior edge extending from the lateral side to the medial side, the interior edge including first and second bifurcated portions on a medial end thereof, a lower portion extending between the interior edge and the inferior outer edge, the lower portion forming a wavy-shaped wall, and a crease portion on the medial side and defined between the first and second bifurcated end portions on the medial end thereof.
 11. The implantable prosthesis according to claim 10, wherein the piece further comprises a longest length, a widest width, and a shortest width, the longest length extending between the convex lateral outer edge and the medial outer edge, the widest width on the lateral side of the piece extending between the superior outer edge and the inferior outer edge, and the shortest width on the medial side of the piece extending between the one or more concave portions of the superior outer edge and the one or more concave portions of the inferior outer edge.
 12. The implantable prosthesis according to claim 11, wherein the interior edge extends from a portion of the convex lateral edge positioned inferior to the longest length.
 13. The implantable prosthesis according to claim 12, wherein the interior edge is a non-linear interior edge extending along or crossing over at least a portion of the longest length.
 14. The implantable prosthesis according to claim 13, wherein at least one of the first and second bifurcated portions of the interior edge are non-linear and do not extend to the medial outer edge.
 15. The implantable prosthesis according to claim 10, wherein the medial outer edge is a concave medial outer edge.
 16. The implantable prosthesis according to claim 10, further comprising one or more barbs positioned on a face of the piece.
 17. The implantable prosthesis according to claim 16, wherein the one or more barbs are positioned on at least a portion of the medial side of the piece along the medial outer edge, positioned on at least a portion of the lower portion of the piece along the inferior outer edge, or both.
 18. An implantable prosthesis for repairing a bilateral inguinal hernial defect comprising: a piece of biocompatible material having a preformed three-dimensional shape and defined by an outer edge including a first convex outer lateral edge, a second convex lateral edge opposite the first convex outer lateral edge, a superior outer edge, and an inferior outer edge opposite the superior outer edge, the piece including a first part and a second part, the first section including: a first lateral side opposite a first medial side extending along a first medial-lateral axis of the first section and a first superior side opposite a first inferior side extending along a first superior-inferior axis of the first section, a first upper portion including a spherical cap extending between a first portion of the superior outer edge and a first interior edge, the first interior edge extending from the first lateral side to the first medial side of the first section, the first interior edge including first and second bifurcated portions on a medial end thereof, a first lower portion extending between the first interior edge and a first portion of the inferior outer edge, the first lower portion forming a first wavy-shaped wall, a first crease portion on the first medial portion and defined between the first and second bifurcated portions of the first crease on the medial end thereof, and, the second section including: a second lateral side opposite a second medial side extending along a second medial-lateral axis of the second section and a second superior side opposite a second inferior side extending along a second superior-inferior axis of the second section, a second upper portion including a spherical cap extending between a second portion of the superior outer edge and a second interior edge extending from the second lateral side to the second medial side, the second interior edge including a third and fourth bifurcated portion on a medial end thereof, a second lower portion extending between the second interior edge and a second portion of the inferior outer edge, the second lower portion forming a second wavy-shaped wall, a second crease portion on the second medial portion and defined between the third and fourth bifurcated portions of the second crease on the medial end thereof, wherein the first and second medial sides of the first and second sections form a central band between the first and second lateral sides across a face of the piece of biocompatible material. 